Almost two years ago, when Sport Witness interviewed the Manchester United legend Bryan Robson, the former midfielder claimed he would like to see Alexis Sanchez signing for the club.
A few months later, the move happened, but things didn’t turn out as expected. Alexis Sanchez has only five goals in 39 appearances for the Red Devils so far, and has failed to impress since joining the club.
Now as Bryan Robson has visited Chile in the past week, he’s been talking to the local press about the number seven, and has claimed that things should be fine once he leaves all the criticism aside.
“A lot of United players were very low in their performances with José Mourinho on the bench, it seemed like they didn’t have freedom on the pitch and they could not attack. Well, that happened to Alexis and we know that’s not his style”, Bryan Robson told El Mercurio.
“Not only he has had some difficulties to show his potential, others as well. Unfortunately, the Chilean has been out with injuries lately and young players, like Marcus Rashford, Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial have entered very well. But in recent games, I have seen that Sanchez is gaining confidence and believing in his great level, with continuity, I think we will see the player we saw at Arsenal.”
Asked about the pressure on Sanchez for being the best paid player in the Premier League, Robson said: “Maybe. The English press always puts pressure on the best players, especially those who earn more. There is a lot of pressure, but I think there is also some envy in this regard. However, Alexis has to be able to handle that. For me, what he has to do is regain his confidence and I see no reason why he can’t.”
Quizzed if the player should work his psychological, he said: “He works a lot for the team, we saw him before he came to Manchester, doing great physical work. Perhaps he is now very focused on making a great effort rather than concentrating on the game itself and make it easier to then elaborate his brilliant plays and create and score goals. If he relaxes and doesn’t think about the salary issue and what the media says, he will enjoy football again and will get the best out of himself, I am sure.”
Finally, Robson was also asked about the change of managers at the club: “Mourinho’s departure was necessary. The results weren’t happening, and when you are United and don’t advance in the Champions League and don’t show an entertaining game, you’re going to be sacked. Meanwhile, Ole Gunnar is doing very well and I think he’s letting players express themselves on the pitch. There have been several victories in a row, with good tactics and a more attacking approach. He brought conviction to the squad”.
